I have prayed more for patience over these last 18 months than I have in my entire life. This isn’t an exaggeration. And quite honestly, I still feel like I’m failing at it.

Maybe you can relate?

Between COVID lockdowns and quarantines, strong-willed children, opinionated extended family members and the general exhaustion that comes with this season of work and school and young kids, my patience always seems to be fleeting. 

And unfortunately, the very people and things I consider to be my biggest blessings — husband, kids, extended families, friends, dogs, career, a home, etc. — end up bearing the brunt of my short temper and grumpiness. 

Sometimes it feels like Groundhog’s Day, in that my lack of patience remains elusive day after day after day. And it can be so discouraging... 

Don’t get me wrong, some days are great. Morning routines go smoothly. Work is productive and fulfilling. Kids are helpful, good listeners and kind to one another. Communication with my husband is on point. The house isn’t a total wreck. The baby only got up once during the night. Our latest family adventure was a blast.

And others … let’s just say I’m exceedingly grateful for God’s love and unending grace.

So why am I sharing? This is an ongoing struggle for me, after all. I definitely don’t have a sure-fire “do this and all will be better” solution, either.

I share because of a specific lesson God has been teaching me through all of this. Maybe it’s something you need to hear right now, too? Though He hasn’t snapped His fingers and turned me into the Queen of Patience, I’ve learned to ...

… KEEP praying 

… KEEP reading Scripture

… KEEP asking for God’s help and grace and love

… KEEP trying to do better

Thankfully, the Bible has a lot to say about perseverance and God’s love: 

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him”  (James 1:12, NIV).

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17, NIV).

There are moments when this practice is much easier said than done. And that’s okay. But with God’s help, I will continue choosing perseverance of patience over a disgruntled acceptance of challenging circumstances. And I will continue striving to “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” throughout each day (Ephesians 4:2, NIV). Because that’s what He has asked of me, and that’s what my loved ones deserve. 

This post was written by a group of volunteer writers who strive to share God's truth through an online platform, but may not reflect the views of The Vineyard Church as a whole. To learn how you can get involved, email us at  .

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